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Post by todd13 on Mar 12, 2018 22:31:58 GMT -6
As I learn more about this sport/hobby called Fly Fishing, the more questions I keep wondering about. I figured I would tap this great group for some general knowledge and fun.
1. What piece of gear are you definitely upgrading/swapping out before next season?
Me- boots. I have to buy boots as my cheap cabela boots are wearing holes into my waders. I slipped in some gel insoles, but they are just cheap boots and not well built. I am buying some Korkers from our local fly shop the weekend of the 24th when I go up. I want those fancy quick, wire laced boots. I want the felt and rubber sole option from the same pair. Super cool boot at a great price.
Other good ideas before Trout Camp 2018?
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Smallfry
Riffle Club
Trophy Sunfish Hunter
Posts: 437
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Post by Smallfry on Mar 12, 2018 23:20:01 GMT -6
I think well fitting boots are a must for sure, went the cheap route and really did regret it till I got a pair that fit better. Those fancy laced boots sure look pretty awesome. Already upgraded my reel so I guess I'll be good for another year before I can invest in anything else.
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Post by FlyAndStream on Mar 12, 2018 23:23:51 GMT -6
I have the Korkers Dark Horse wading boots and absolutely LOVE them. So simple, durable, and utilitarian for what we do – so, great choice there!
Regarding your question of 'What piece of gear are you definitely upgrading/swapping out before next season':
I really need a new sling / hip pack / chest pack / something. My buddy was so dang proud that he found a fishing satchel for me on Amazon for $20 he bought it for me as a gift. But the thing has like 42 zippers on it and trashes my 5x every chance it gets, which is usually when working a fish in the net.
It's such an important piece of gear, one I'll have to live with when buying a new one, I don't want to buy the wrong thing. Currently I'm looking at the Simms Waypoint Hip Pack in Large, but am undecided.
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Post by turfdawg on Mar 13, 2018 5:01:27 GMT -6
I’ve got too much stuff now.
Well maybe one of those silicone fly boxes
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Post by golferjeff on Mar 13, 2018 6:45:15 GMT -6
I just got a new nymphing rod/reel/line. Haven't had the chance to use it yet. That is priority #1. Simms Fishing took care of me and sent me a bunch of stuff to make up for my defective boots (Loafers, dual chest pak, belt, waterproof phone case). Maybe I will just buy more flies and go on another trip.......
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Post by paul01 on Mar 13, 2018 9:58:04 GMT -6
My personal philosophy is that one should buy the best rods, reels, fly lines, and leaders that you can afford - That's what really counts. You also need to have well tied flies, whether you tie them yourself or buy them at a fly shop. If you're on a limited budget, then I would skimp (within reason) on the rest of the gear. I'll spend $800 on a fly rod, but I don't buy high-end boots, waders, fishing vests, landing nets, wading staffs, hats, etc.
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Post by mirvc17 on Mar 13, 2018 18:24:34 GMT -6
I have a Smith Creek rod holder that dangles from my chest pack. I bought an O'Pros Dragonfly rod holder (google it) that goes on your belt. Looks like a convenient way to hold your rod when you need both hands. The Smith one works OK, but sometimes the rod tangles in your face and gets in the way.
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Post by todd13 on Mar 13, 2018 19:07:11 GMT -6
I really need a new sling / hip pack / chest pack / something. My buddy was so dang proud that he found a fishing satchel for me on Amazon for $20 he bought it for me as a gift. But the thing has like 42 zippers on it and trashes my 5x every chance it gets, which is usually when working a fish in the net. It's such an important piece of gear, one I'll have to live with when buying a new one, I don't want to buy the wrong thing. Currently I'm looking at the Simms Waypoint Hip Pack in Large, but am undecided. I moved to a chestpack. I have the Umpqua pack with minimal opportunity for line to catch (Overlook 500, zero sweep). Also stays dry as I ford a stream. Credit goes to my son in law. I like the versatility of having the matching backpack option to stuff a jacket or extra fly box full of my favorite flies. Or water, if you drink water.
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Post by hoss on Mar 14, 2018 14:14:20 GMT -6
I really need a new sling / hip pack / chest pack / something. My buddy was so dang proud that he found a fishing satchel for me on Amazon for $20 he bought it for me as a gift. But the thing has like 42 zippers on it and trashes my 5x every chance it gets, which is usually when working a fish in the net. It's such an important piece of gear, one I'll have to live with when buying a new one, I don't want to buy the wrong thing. Currently I'm looking at the Simms Waypoint Hip Pack in Large, but am undecided. I moved to a chestpack. I have the Umpqua pack with minimal opportunity for line to catch (Overlook 500, zero sweep). Also stays dry as I ford a stream. Credit goes to my son in law. I like the versatility of having the matching backpack option to stuff a jacket or extra fly box full of my favorite flies. Or water, if you drink water. I got an Orvis sling pack this year. Can't seem to get used to it, too much motion and involvement moving the sling to get access to my gear (I'm constantly make adjustments and changing out flies, etc.). I understand some really like the sling, it's out of the way and packs a lot. Anyhow I went back to my Simms vest and will use the sling for hiking into areas or when I'm fishing for say sand bass where I make few adjustments during the day.
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Post by flyfisher on Mar 15, 2018 12:11:54 GMT -6
Fist upgrade should be Good boots with good support. You will be in them all day long (if lucky). If you are not comfortable out in the river and unstable, it really makes no difference what kind of wonder-rod you are slinging.... IMHO
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Post by coldwaterfly on Mar 15, 2018 18:13:15 GMT -6
Wading pants for this summer. I’ve been a wader purist for far too long.
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Post by dainw on Mar 15, 2018 18:35:47 GMT -6
Really like the korkers, not sure about the BOA system though. Can’t ever get them tight enough. But then again can’t seem to keep laces tied on lace up boots either. Anyway, recommend getting the Aluma Trax soles if you can find them.
As far as my gear goes, time for another rod. Wanting a 10 ft 6 weight. Thinking BVK but reallly would like an X. Too bad I’m married to an accountant. She’s already put me on a limit.
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Post by hankinsfly on Mar 15, 2018 19:40:37 GMT -6
Dain- why the 10' 6wt? Deep water nymph rigs on the White?
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Post by turfdawg on Mar 15, 2018 20:19:32 GMT -6
I changed my mind. I would like a guide jacket for colder weather and one for warm weather rainy days
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Post by dainw on Mar 15, 2018 21:10:12 GMT -6
Dain- why the 10' 6wt? Deep water nymph rigs on the White? Yeah that’s one thing I want to do with it. Got the idea from Nathaneal. Just heavier nymph rigs in general. I also just like 10 foot rods. Extra foot seems to give better line control when mending and reaching over currents. I have a 10’4 weight Allen that I really like, but it’s a little bit overmatched if you’re throwing big nymphs.
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Post by hankinsfly on Mar 15, 2018 22:08:31 GMT -6
I agree with all of that. I have a 10' 4wt Hardy, but it's really more of a 5. Nice stick. Caught lots of fish on it. Good for wet flies.
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Post by jonbo on Mar 16, 2018 8:53:17 GMT -6
I like the 9' 5wt Hardy I bought on closeout a for an all around rod, a lot. The other day I took it to BB Park. I threw leeches on a sinking leader, then pretty heavy nymphs with a big bobber. It did great with both. I plan to take it with me to the San Juan in November.
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Post by thecroflys on Apr 29, 2018 21:55:21 GMT -6
I’m getting really into the euro nymp/tight line method of fishing and with it I am upgrading to a 10 1/2’ 3 or 4 weight rod. I started learning with a 9 foot 4 weight medium-action Redington but want the reach and feel of a 10.5’ rod. Looking seriously at the Cortland Competition Nymph rods. It really is a blast to feel the subtle takes and I really like the concentration I need to make it successful. It leaves me tired but happy at the end of the day.
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Post by golferjeff on Apr 30, 2018 9:59:53 GMT -6
I have a Cortland Competition 10.5 3wt. I matched it to an Orvis Battenkill3 reel. I loved it. I finally got to use it last weekend at the LMF. Great for tight lining, good casting up to about 30', good for catching all the 10-14" browns. The only issue I have is that the rod case is bigger and does not fit in any of my carriers. Oh well.
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